Lot 309: ANTIQUITIES, A Coptic Terracotta Pilgrim’s Flask from Egypt

A Coptic terracotta souvenir pilgrim flask, Roman Egypt, c. AD 480 – 650, depicting Saint Menas on one side, flanked by camels, his arms outstretched in blessing, above each arm is a quincunx, representing a cross; all within a beaded circular border. One the second side within a wreath, is a cross on a raised disk at the center, surrounded by relief inscription, ‘TOYAGIOYMHNA’ (of Saint Menas). Intact, light weathering. H: 3 5/8” (9.2 cm). Cf. Bailey, Ptolemaic and Roman Terracottas from Egypt, p. 119, no 3430 for the type; Ex UK Private collection. The small flasks were probably produced at the pilgrimage center of Abu Mena, south-west of Alexandria, to sell to the devout as a souvenir of a visit. They have been deduced to have contained holy water or oil from the shrine.

• Offered By: VAuctions
• Lot #: 309
• Listing #: 187700
• Closed: Thursday, June 21, 2012 8:25:20 PM CT
• Estimate: $500